Jacob Rees-Mogg confirms political return after Nigel Farage's bid to lure him to Reform UK

Jacob Rees-Mogg has confirmed his return to frontline politics after lodging a bid to be listed as a Conservative candidate.

The GB News host revealed live on air that he was seeking approval to stand, his first move back into the area since losing his seat in 2024.

“I've sent in my application to go back on the list this week,” Jacob revealed when pressed on the issue by Christopher Hope.

“We'll see whether I get purged later,” he joked, in reference to Tory leader Kemi Badenoch’s drive to ensure new Conservative candidates are on board with her policy direction.

To that end, Jacob backed Mrs Badenoch's efforts to ensure future candidates support the party's direction, saying prospective MPs should oppose Net Zero policies and leaving the ECHR.

“I think she's absolutely right to be saying that people standing must believe in getting rid of this nonsense on net zero, which has destroyed our economy,” he said.

“They must believe in the UK Government taking place with the King in Parliament, not being imposed upon us by foreign courts. And if you don't believe in that, are you really a Conservative?”

However, the GB News host cautioned against narrowing the party too far, arguing the Conservatives must remain “a broad church” capable of attracting support from across the right.

Jacob was also asked about Nigel Farage’s repeated attempts to recruit him to his own party.

“There've been endless rumours about me joining Reform, none of which have been true,” he said.

In a further swipe at Reform, he added: “Why would I join Reform now when it's in a bit of a muddle?”

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